The 6 Types of Working Genius: A Better Way to Understand Your Gifts, Your Frustrations, and Your Team

By Patrick M. Lencioni

Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die

By Chip and Dan Heath

WHY I LOVE THIS BOOK: As a professor, YouTuber, author, podcaster, etc., I am forever trying to engage with my audience in a way that is meaningful and salient to them. After all, I’m trying to impart valuable skills that will help people find greater success in life and in business. This books helps me understand the best ways to do this, all while being genuine and authentic.

Every Tool’s a Hammer: Life Is What You Make It

By Adam Savage

WHY I LOVE THIS BOOK: I grew up in a generation that venerated white-collar work over blue-collar work, much to our detriment. In this book, Adam Savage demonstrates how working with one’s hands requires a level creativity, problem-solving, innovation, critical thinking, and cross-functional understanding that cubical dwellers can only dream of. He encourages me to think outside of my limited mindset and consider the act of creation in new and exciting ways.

The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results

By Gary Keller

WHY I LOVE THIS BOOK: I am forever struck by how our time, energy, and other resources are in limited supply, yet demand for these limited resources is infinite, if we allow it to be. This book does a superb job making the case that we can only be effective and successful if we stay focused on those things that truly matter to us and push everything else aside.

Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered

By Austin Kleon

WHY I LOVE THIS BOOK: I’m probably not alone in sometimes thinking that something needs to be perfect before I offer it up to their world for its criticism. Problem is, we can never really develop our skills if we don’t produce and learn along the way. This book makes a great case for why it’s not only important but a competitive advantage to let others join us along our journey of creating whatever it is we’re trying to create.

I use the Rode VideoMic Pro+ Camera-Mount Shotgun Microphone for both my camera phone as well as on my DSLR for run-and-gun shoots. It is very good and highly versatile, so you’ll never have to worry about outgrowing it.

DETAILS: The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is a high-quality camera-mount shotgun microphone that is designed for professional video production. It features a supercardioid polar pattern that isolates the audio from the main source while minimizing background noise, making it ideal for capturing clear and crisp dialogue. The microphone also has a built-in high-pass filter that removes unwanted low-frequency noise, such as traffic or wind. The VideoMic Pro+ also includes a rechargeable battery that provides up to 100 hours of continuous use, as well as a digital switching system that allows you to easily switch between different settings. Overall, the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is a versatile and reliable microphone that is well-suited for a wide range of video production applications.

The Neewer 10-inch LED Ring Light is an affordable and versatile light that can function as either a key light or fill light.

DETAILS: The Neewer 10-inch LED Ring Light is a budget-friendly and versatile lighting solution that is popular among photographers, videographers and vloggers. It is designed to evenly illuminate your subject and reduce harsh shadows, making it ideal for videography. The ring light comes with a dimmable feature that allows you to adjust the brightness to your liking. The color temperature of the light is adjustable from 3200K-5600K, this allows you to choose the perfect lighting for your shot. The light also comes with a remote control that allows you to change the settings easily. The build quality is good and it is easy to set up and use. Overall, the Neewer 10-inch LED Ring Light is a great value for the price and is a great addition to any photography or videography kit.

I use the Joby GorillaPod Compact Tripod because it’s simple and highly portable. This comes in handy when I want to shoot a short when out and about.

DETAILS: The Joby GorillaPod Compact Tripod is a versatile and portable tripod that is perfect for photographers and videographers who are always on the go. It is designed to be lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. The tripod features flexible legs that can be wrapped around poles, branches, or other objects, allowing you to set it up in a variety of different positions. Additionally, the rubberized foot grips and durable construction provide a secure hold, even in challenging environments. It is compatible with most cameras and action cams. It also comes with a ballhead that allows you to adjust the angle of your camera easily. Overall, the Joby GorillaPod Compact Tripod is a great option for photographers and videographers who want a compact, versatile and durable tripod for their camera.

I have like five tripods, but the Benro Slim Video Tripod is probably my favorite. It’s large enough that it suits most of my basic tripod needs, yet is small and light enough that it is highly portable. What’s more, it can be disassembled and used as a selfie stick!

DETAILS: The Benro Slim Video Tripod is a compact and lightweight tripod designed for videographers and photographers who need a stable and portable support for their camera. It is constructed with high-quality aluminum and has a 3-section legs design, making it easy to set up and adjust to different heights. It also has a unique design with thin legs that provide a sleek and professional look. The tripod includes a removable center column that can be attached to the tripod’s horizontal position to provide low angle shots. It also has a built-in 75-degree incline mechanism that allows you to adjust the center column to be parallel to the ground, which is perfect for low-angle shots. Additionally, the tripod includes a smooth fluid head that allows for smooth pan and tilt movements. Overall, the Benro Slim Video Tripod is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and portable video tripod that can provide a stable and professional performance.

I love the Arnarkok Metal Phone Tripod Mount because it is very solid and has plenty of mount points to add additional accessories when necessary. It also locks into position and secures your phone so no matter how much you’re moving, this thing will keep your securely in place.

DETAILS: The Arnarkok Metal Phone Tripod Mount is a versatile and durable phone holder that is compatible with most smartphones. It is made of high-quality aluminum alloy that provides a sturdy and durable construction. It has a universal 1/4 inch screw thread that can be attached to any standard tripod. The holder has adjustable jaws that can accommodate phones of different sizes and has a secure grip to prevent it from falling off. The holder can also be adjusted to different angles, allowing you to take photos or videos from different perspectives. The holder also has a cold shoe mount on the top, which allows you to mount other accessories, such as a microphone or an LED light. Overall, the Arnarkok Metal Phone Tripod Mount is a great option for those looking for a durable and versatile phone holder that can be used with most standard tripods.

The Sony a6400 is the first camera I purchased when I made the leap into serious video production and is still a vital part of my gear arsenal.

DETAILS: The Sony a6400 mirrorless camera is well-suited for both photography and videography. It features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processor that deliver excellent image quality and fast performance. The camera also has a high-speed autofocus system that can lock onto a subject in as little as 0.02 seconds, making it great for capturing fast-moving action. The a6400 also has a high-resolution 4K video capability and a built-in microphone jack for professional-level audio recording. It also has a 180-degree tiltable touchscreen LCD monitor that allows for easy composition and shooting at high or low angles. It also has a built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to share and transfer your photos and videos. Overall, the Sony a6400 is a powerful and versatile camera that is suitable for both photography and videography and offers many advanced features for professional and enthusiasts.

The Sigma 16mm f/1.4 lens is a fast wide angle option, perfect for shooting in tight spaces. This is more or less the only lens I ever used for the first few years of my video production career and is still in my top three favorite lenses.

DETAILS: The Sigma 16mm f/1.4 lens is a high-performance wide-angle lens designed for use with APS-C cameras. It has a fast f/1.4 aperture that allows for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field effects. The lens also features a multi-layer coating that helps to reduce flare and ghosting, resulting in sharp and clear images. The lens construction includes 15 elements in 11 groups, which includes two aspherical elements and two FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) elements that minimize chromatic aberrations. The lens also has a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) that ensures fast and quiet autofocus performance. The build quality is robust and it has a durable metal mount. Overall, the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 lens is a great option for photographers and videographers who need a fast and wide-angle lens with excellent image quality and low-light capabilities.

Okay, so I don’t yet own a Sony Alpha ZV-E10 camera just yet, but if I were starting at this stage, this is the camera I’d probably pickup (and I likely will soon).

DETAILS: Since this is a new camera and I don’t (yet) own one, I’m not really qualified to offer any real details, other than I want one!

The thing that sets the Sennheiser Professional MKE 600 Shotgun Microphone apart for me is that it is an XLR mic and yet can connect directly to the camera via a 3.5 mm adaptor. Plus, it’s just a great sounding mic!

DETAILS: The Sennheiser Professional MKE 600 is a high-quality shotgun microphone that is designed for professional video production. It features a supercardioid polar pattern that isolates the audio from the main source while minimizing background noise, making it ideal for capturing clear and crisp dialogue. The microphone also has a built-in low-cut filter that removes unwanted low-frequency noise, such as wind or traffic. The MKE 600 also includes a battery-powered operation, providing up to 300 hours of use with a single AA battery. It also features a shock mount that helps to isolate the microphone from handling noise. The build quality of the microphone is robust and it has a durable metal construction. Overall, the Sennheiser Professional MKE 600 is a versatile and reliable microphone that is well-suited for a wide range of video production applications.

If the Shure SM7B looks familiar to you, that’s because you’ve seen it in just about professional caliber podcast out there.

DETAILS: The Shure SM7B is a high-quality dynamic microphone that is widely used in professional recording and broadcasting settings. It is known for its ability to handle high sound pressure levels, making it ideal for recording vocals, instruments, and speech. The microphone also has a built-in bass roll-off and mid-range boost switch that allows you to tailor the frequency response to your specific needs. The SM7B also has a built-in pop filter and internal shock mount that helps to eliminate unwanted noise and vibrations. The microphone also has a durable construction and is built to withstand the rigors of professional use. It also has a standard XLR connection. Overall, the Shure SM7B is a versatile and durable microphone that is suitable for a wide range of professional recording and broadcasting applications, and it is considered one of the best vocal mic in the market.

If you chose to invest in the Shure SM7B above, you’ll need a Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator. I don’t know exactly how it works, but it boosts the signal from the Shure and brings it in strong and crisp.

DETAILS: The Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator is a compact and easy-to-use device designed to boost the output of passive microphones. It is designed to work with dynamic and ribbon microphones, which require extra gain to reach optimal performance when used in conjunction with a preamp or audio interface. The CL-1 provides up to 25dB of clean gain, which allows the microphone to perform better and reach the desired sound level. It also has a built-in switchable high-pass filter that helps to reduce unwanted low-frequency noise, such as wind or traffic. The device also has a durable construction and is built to withstand the rigors of professional use. It is also easy to use, simply plug the microphone into the CL-1, and then plug the CL-1 into the preamp or audio interface. Overall, the Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator is a simple but effective solution for those looking to boost the output of passive microphones and achieve the desired sound level.

Once you graduate up to XLR mics with Phantom Power, you’ll need an audio interface. The Motu M2 2×2 USB-C Audio Interface is excellent and affordable, so this is what I use in my studio.

DETAILS: The Motu M2 2×2 USB-C Audio Interface is a compact and versatile audio interface that is designed for use with computers, tablets, and smartphones. It features two high-quality microphone preamps and two analog inputs and outputs that support 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution. It also has a USB-C port for connecting to a computer and a built-in DSP for low-latency monitoring. The interface also has a built-in headphone amplifier that provides high-quality audio output. The M2 also has a durable and sleek design that makes it easy to transport and set up. The interface also comes with a variety of software and tools that allow you to customize and optimize your audio recording and playback experience. Overall, the Motu M2 2×2 USB-C Audio Interface is a great option for those looking for a compact, high-performance and versatile audio interface that can be used with a variety of devices and setups.

The NEEWER 2 Pieces Bi-color 660 LED Video Light and Stand Kit is a great key and fill light solution. They take up very little space, can be easily placed wherever you like, and can provide as much or as little light as you need.

DETAILS: The NEEWER 2 Pieces Bi-color 660 LED Video Light is a budget-friendly and versatile lighting solution for videographers and photographers. It features 660 high-quality LED beads that provide a color temperature range of 3200K-5600K, allowing you to adjust the light to match the ambient light or create the desired mood. The light also has a high CRI (Color Rendering Index) rating, which ensures that the colors of the objects are accurately reproduced. The lights are also dimmable, allowing you to adjust the brightness to your liking. The lights come with a remote control that allows you to change the settings easily. The lights also have a durable construction and a built-in cooling system that helps to prolong the life of the LEDs. Overall, the NEEWER 2 Pieces Bi-color 660 LED Video Light is a great value for the price and is a great addition to any photography or videography kit.

The Aputure Amaran MC RGBWW Mini On Camera Video Light is a go-to for me. Intensity, hue, saturation, battery or plug-in, this thing delivers everything you need in a small fill or accent light. It even has a magnet on the back so you can easily place it wherever you like.

DETAILS: The Aputure Amaran MC RGBWW Mini On Camera Video Light is a compact and versatile lighting solution for videographers and photographers. It features a color temperature range of 2600K-9999K and a CRI of 96+ which means it can produce accurate and vibrant colors. Additionally, it has a built-in RGBWW LED that allows you to create a wide range of lighting effects and moods. The light also has a high brightness of up to 1500 Lux, making it suitable for a wide range of lighting scenarios. It also has a built-in battery that provides up to 90 minutes of continuous use at full brightness. The light also has a durable construction and a built-in cooling system that helps to prolong the life of the LEDs. The light also features a remote control and it can be controlled by smartphone app which makes it easy to use. Overall, the Aputure Amaran MC RGBWW Mini On Camera Video Light is a powerful and versatile lighting solution that is suitable for a wide range of photography and videography applications.

C-Stands are your new best friend, and the NEEWER Pro 100% Stainless Steel Heavy Duty C Stand with Boom Arm is a great choice.

DETAILS: The NEEWER Pro 100% Stainless Steel Heavy Duty C Stand with Boom Arm is a versatile and durable support system for photographers and videographers. It is made of 100% stainless steel, making it extremely durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. The C-stand has a maximum height of 210cm and a minimum height of 125cm, providing ample height adjustments. The stand also features a removable boom arm that can be adjusted to different angles and locked in place, allowing you to position your lights or accessories at various heights and angles. The stand also has a weight capacity of up to 20 lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of lights and accessories. The C-stand also has a foldable design that makes it easy to transport and set up. Overall, the NEEWER Pro 100% Stainless Steel Heavy Duty C Stand with Boom Arm is a robust and versatile support system that is suitable for a wide range of photography and videography applications.

The Sony a7iii is an incredible camera that delivers the whole package wen it comes to prosumer video production. This is now my primary camera for all my shoots.

DETAILS: The Sony a7 III is a full-frame mirrorless camera that offers professional-level performance and features. It features a 24.2-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processor that deliver excellent image quality and fast performance. The camera also has a fast and accurate autofocus system that can lock onto a subject in as little as 0.03 seconds, making it great for capturing fast-moving action. The a7 III also has high-resolution 4K video capability and a built-in microphone jack for professional-level audio recording. It also has a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a tilting touchscreen LCD monitor that allows for easy composition and shooting at high or low angles. Additionally, the camera has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to share and transfer your photos and videos. Overall, the Sony a7 III is a powerful and versatile camera that offers professional-level performance and features, and it is considered one of the best full-frame mirrorless cameras in the market.

The Sony E-mount FE 24mm F1.4 GM Full Frame Wide-angle Prime Lens is a perfect option for close tight spaces.

DETAILS: The Sony E-mount FE 24mm F1.4 GM Full Frame Wide-angle Prime Lens is a high-performance lens designed for use with Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras. It has a fast f/1.4 maximum aperture that allows for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field effects. The lens also features a nano AR coating that helps to reduce flare and ghosting, resulting in sharp and clear images. The lens construction includes 11 elements in 8 groups, which includes one aspherical element and two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements that minimize chromatic aberrations. The lens also has a Direct Drive SSM (Super Sonic wave Motor) that ensures fast, accurate and quiet autofocus performance. The build quality is robust and it has a durable metal mount. The lens also has a dust and moisture resistant design. Overall, the Sony E-mount FE 24mm F1.4 GM Full Frame Wide-angle Prime Lens is a great option for professional photographers and videographers who need a fast and wide-angle lens with excellent image quality and low-light capabilities.

The Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS Standard Zoom Lens is my current favorite lens. Full fame, wide angle to 105mm zoom, it does everything I need and then some.

DETAILS: The Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS Standard Zoom Lens is a versatile and high-quality lens designed for use with Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras. It has a zoom range of 24-105mm, making it suitable for a wide range of photography and videography applications, from wide-angle landscapes to portraits and telephoto shots. The lens has a fast f/4 aperture that allows for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field effects. The lens also features a built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization system that helps to reduce camera shake, making it ideal for hand-held shooting. The lens construction includes 16 elements in 11 groups, which includes one aspherical element and two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements that minimize chromatic aberrations. The lens also has a durable construction and it is dust and moisture resistant. Overall, the Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS Standard Zoom Lens is a great option for photographers and videographers who need a versatile and high-quality standard zoom lens with a wide range of focal length and excellent image quality.

The Aputure 300D Mark II C300d II Led Video Light is a crazy, over-the-top lighting system that is way more than I need and I love it!

DETAILS: The Aputure 300D Mark II (C300d II) is a powerful and versatile LED video light that is designed for professional videography and photography. It features a color temperature range of 3000K-6500K, and a high CRI (Color Rendering Index) of 96+ that ensures accurate and vibrant colors. The light also has a high output of up to 60,000 lux at 0.5 meters and a wide beam angle of 120 degrees, making it suitable for a wide range of lighting scenarios. It also has a built-in cooling system that helps to prolong the life of the LEDs and a touch screen control panel for easy adjustments of settings. The light also has a durable construction and is built to withstand the rigors of professional use. It also includes a remote control, which allows you to control the light from a distance. Overall, the Aputure 300D Mark II (C300d II) is a powerful and versatile lighting solution that is suitable for a wide range of professional photography and videography applications.

If you choose the Aputure 300D Mark II then you’ll need the Aputure Light Dome II Softbox.

DETAILS: The Aputure Light Dome II Softbox is a versatile and high-quality light modifier designed for use with studio lights. It is made of high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. The softbox has a unique design that provides a wide and even spread of light, making it suitable for a wide range of photography and videography applications. It also has a removable front diffusion panel that allows you to adjust the light to your specific needs. The softbox also has a durable construction and is built to withstand the rigors of professional use. It also includes a carrying bag that makes it easy to transport and set up. Overall, the Aputure Light Dome II Softbox is a versatile and high-quality light modifier that is suitable for a wide range of professional photography and videography applications. It provides a soft, natural and even light that is great for portraits, product photography, and video.

If you choose the Aputure 300D Mark II or some other large LED light rig then you’ll need a light stand, such as the Neewer Pro 100% Stainless Steel C Stand Light Stand with Casters.

DETAILS: The Neewer Pro 100% Stainless Steel C Stand Light Stand with Casters is a durable and heavy-duty support system for photographers and videographers. It is made of 100% stainless steel, making it extremely durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. The C-stand has a maximum height of 8.5 feet and a minimum height of 3.5 feet, providing ample height adjustments. The stand also features four casters that make it easy to move the stand around, allowing you to position your lights or accessories with ease. The stand also has a foldable design that makes it easy to transport and set up. The stand also has a locking system that allows you to securely lock the stand in place, ensuring that your lights or accessories stay in place during use. Additionally, it also has a weight capacity of up to 20 lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of lights and accessories. Overall, the Neewer Pro 100% Stainless Steel C Stand Light Stand with Casters is a robust and versatile support system that is suitable for a wide range of photography and videography applications and it is a great option for those looking for a stable and easy to move stand.

I have a couple Neewer Heavy Duty Light Stand with Casters in my studio. They’re insanely useful in all kinds of ways.

DETAILS: The Neewer Heavy Duty Light Stand with Casters is a versatile and durable support system for photographers and videographers. It is made of high-quality aluminum alloy, making it extremely durable and able to support up to 13.2 pounds of weight. The stand has a maximum height of 8.5 feet and a minimum height of 3.5 feet, providing ample height adjustments. It also features four casters that make it easy to move the stand around, allowing you to position your lights or accessories with ease. The stand also has a foldable design that makes it easy to transport and set up. The stand also has a locking system that allows you to securely lock the stand in place, ensuring that your lights or accessories stay in place during use. Overall, the Neewer Heavy Duty Light Stand with Casters is a robust and versatile support system that is suitable for a wide range of photography and videography applications and it is a great option for those looking for a stable and easy to move stand.